Gran Canaria: a trip to the Veneguera Valley

If you’re considering a walk in Gran Canaria’s Veneguera Valley, you’re in for a treat. This tour promises a journey through some of the island’s most striking landscapes, with a mix of lush greenery, dramatic rock formations, and sea vistas. While the route isn’t the easiest—it’s a demanding 5 km hike with significant elevation gain—those who enjoy active exploration will find plenty of reward here.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines nature, local culture, and a bit of adventure. The lush mango and avocado plantations feel almost like a secret oasis, and the colorful tiled wall within the Inagua Nature Reserve offers a splash of artistic charm amidst wild landscapes. However, it’s worth noting that the hike’s length and elevation might be challenging for some, so good shoes and a decent level of fitness are essential.

This tour seems best suited for active travelers with a taste for scenic, off-the-beaten-path spots who don’t mind a bit of physical effort. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see Gran Canaria beyond its beaches and tourist resorts, and want to enjoy a more authentic, nature-focused experience.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes including impressive rock formations and lush plantations
• Inagua Nature Reserve with its colorful tiled wall as a highlight
• Moderate to demanding hike with 5 km distance and 350 m elevation gain
• Includes a picnic with local fruits like mangoes and papayas
• Guided in multiple languages and led by professional hikers
• Not suitable for young children or mobility-impaired travelers

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Veneguera Valley Tour

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the promise of exploring one of Gran Canaria’s wildest and most impressive terrains. Starting from the small village of Veneguera, the route gives you a taste of authentic island life with its large cardón cactus — a true symbol of the Canary Islands — standing tall and proud. It’s a quiet, almost untouched corner, perfect for those who want to see the island away from crowded beaches.

The Village of Veneguera

The journey begins with a pickup from several prominent locations like Puerto Rico, Arguineguín, and Maspalomas, making it accessible for many staying in the southern resorts. After a roughly 50-minute bus ride, you arrive in Veneguera, a charming and peaceful village. Here, the tour offers a chance to appreciate the local landscape and get ready for the trek ahead.

The Walk through Mango and Avocado Plantations

Once on the trail, you’ll traverse through a verdant valley dotted with mango and avocado plantations, which are often called the island’s “green gold”. This is where the tour really shines — the contrast between the lush greenery and the rocky surroundings is striking. We loved the way the route showcases how agriculture fits into the wild landscape, with abandoned farms hinting at a once more bustling rural life.

The plantations are a highlight, giving you a close look at local produce that’s quintessential to the Canary Islands. Expect to see abandoned farms, which add a sense of history and quiet resilience. The guide will likely share stories about local farming practices, adding depth to your experience.

Impressive Rock Formations and the Tiled Wall

As you gain elevation, the scenery shifts to impressive rock formations, carved by wind and water over centuries. One of the standout sights is the colorful tiled wall within the Inagua Nature Reserve. This bold splash of color adds an artistic touch amid the natural beauty, creating a perfect photo opportunity.

Authentic reviews echo this sentiment — Dariusz from Poland called the experience “very nice,” and praised the passionate guides. The combination of natural elements and artistic features makes this part of the hike memorable.

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The Inagua Nature Reserve

The reserve is an important stop, offering a unique mix of flora and fauna. The guide may point out various flowering plants and local wildlife, making this a good spot for nature lovers. The reserve’s importance is underscored by the presence of the tiled wall, which adds vibrancy and a cultural layer to the natural landscape.

The Picnic and Sea Views

After exploring the reserve, the group takes a break for a picnic, where you can enjoy fresh local fruits — mangoes and papayas are usually on offer, straight from the plantations you just passed. It’s a great moment to relax, refuel, and take in the panoramic views of the coast. From this vantage point, you’ll see a wide variety of flowers and the expansive sea, a perfect spot for soaking up the landscape and catching your breath.

The Return via the Other Side of the Valley

The second part of the walk takes you to the other side, revealing more flowers and spectacular vistas of the sea. The trail here is slightly less rocky but still requires good footwear, especially because of the 350-meter elevation change. The views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains make it all worthwhile.

Return to Veneguera

Once back in the village, the tour concludes with an opportunity to sample some fresh mangoes and papayas, making for a natural and delicious ending. The entire walk is approximately 5 km, but the uphill sections and uneven terrain mean it’s quite a demanding route.

Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour lasts about 3 hours and 20 minutes, including transportation, walking, and free time. The guided experience is offered in German, English, and Spanish, ensuring most travelers feel well-informed throughout.

Transportation is reliable, with bus pickups from key resorts early in the morning, followed by a comfortable transfer to Veneguera. The return journey is equally smooth, dropping you off at several locations, making it convenient for your day’s plans.

What to Bring and Wear

Given the nature of the hike, you’ll want to come prepared with good hiking shoes — the tour provides professional boots for rent, which is a nice touch. Dress in comfortable clothes and sportswear, and don’t forget sunscreen, especially since parts of the path are exposed. A daypack for water, snacks, and your camera is recommended.

Who Should Think Twice

This isn’t a casual stroll — the 350 m elevation gain and demanding terrain mean it’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness. The tour explicitly states it’s not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Feedback from past participants is overwhelmingly positive. All three reviews rate it a perfect 5/5. Dariusz from Poland highlights the passionate guides and the quality of the experience, recommending it for those who prefer active adventures over lounging by the pool. Daniel from Germany appreciates the well-organized nature of the trip, highlighting the informative guide and the opportunity to learn about the islands and beyond. Gunther from Germany simply calls the guides “very friendly,” reaffirming the welcoming atmosphere.

Value for Money

With a duration of about 3.5 hours and guided commentary in multiple languages, the tour offers good value for active travelers wanting a meaningful look at Gran Canaria’s wild side. The inclusion of professional hiking boots for rent adds convenience, especially for those who might not have suitable footwear.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous, nature-loving travelers who want to see a different side of Gran Canaria. If you’re comfortable with a moderately demanding hike and love scenic landscapes, you’ll find this route rewarding. It’s not suited for young children or those with mobility issues, but if you’re fit and eager to explore off the beaten path, this will be a memorable outing.

It’s a great choice whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a small group. The informative guides and scenic stops make it educational too, perfect for anyone keen on learning about local flora, geology, and culture.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The total walking distance is approximately 5 km, with a 350-meter elevation gain, making it a demanding but rewarding trek.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from several key resorts, with a roughly 50-minute transfer to Veneguera and about 30 minutes back after the hike.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, hiking shoes (which you can rent if needed), sunscreen, a daypack, and water are essential for this trip.

Is this suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 6 due to the physical demands of the hike.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to most travelers.

How difficult is the hike?
It’s rated as a level 2, which indicates a moderate to difficult route mainly because of the elevation gain and terrain.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guided hiking, transportation, and the option to rent professional hiking boots.

How scenic is the route?
Expect breathtaking views of the sea, impressive rock formations, lush plantations, and colorful artistic features like the tiled wall — a true feast for the eyes.

Would I enjoy this if I’m not into active pursuits?
Probably not. If you prefer relaxing days, this might be too physical, but if you love a challenge and natural beauty, it’s perfect.

Final thoughts

The Veneguera Valley tour is a solid choice for travelers looking to get off the beach and enjoy Gran Canaria’s wild, green landscapes. It’s well-organized, offers plenty of scenic highlights, and provides a chance to see local flora and geological wonders up close. Although it requires a decent level of fitness and good footwear, the experience is worth the effort for those who love adventure and nature.

If you’re after a more authentic, less commercialized side of the island, this trek delivers. It’s especially suited for active explorers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural touches, and a bit of physical challenge. Just be sure to prepare with comfortable shoes and a good attitude — the views and experiences you’ll gather make it more than worthwhile.

Ready to explore Gran Canaria’s hidden gems? This journey through Veneguera Valley might just become one of your favorite memories from the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: